Local teen produces own films
By Staff
Nathan Strickland
Austin Casas has dabbled in a little bit of everything when it comes to the entertainment world, but taking on a film project is a new concept that he hopes to perfect in the near future.
Casas, 17, went to Phil Campbell High School for a little while, until absences from trying to follow his dreams took over and he had to be pulled out and home schooled.
Casas’ parents, Eddie and Teresa, are behind their son 100 percent and try to help him along the way.
Casas began his involvement in entertainment in 2009 when he went to visit his uncle in Cleveland, Ohio, and got a stage-acting role. Casas said ever since that time he knew that this was something he wanted to be involved with professionally.
Casas has had some high points so far in his journey, collaborating with Alabama Film Committee member Michael Gayles to create a music video called “Stop the stupid stuff 2.”
Casas said that project has recently taken off, affecting towns in Tennessee who have adopted the video because of its message.
With lots of help from Gayles, production equipment provided by Brian Kenimer and Lucas Berry and acting coach Darren Butler from Decatur, Casas is currently working on a feature film, where he wrote the screenplay, directs and stars in, called “The Wannabe.”
The film depicts high school bullying and the different lifestyles teens lead. Casas describes it as a “cliffhanger film.”
Casas hopes to have it finished by the end of summer and wants to submit it for viewing in the 2011 George Lindsey Film Festival hosted by the University of North Alabama annually each March.
Casas also hopes to enter his film into other festivals to try and build up his notoriety.
Casas hopes to utilize the talent in the area for his film. His Location shots will incorporate local areas such as Phil Campbell High School, Tharptown High School, Skateland in Russellville and certain spots in Muscle Shoals. Casas said his inspiration for taking on the entertainment industry is Lucas Black.
Even though Casas dreams big, he realizes he is still 17 years old and has a lot of growing up to do.
Casas said he has no clue what the future may hold for him, but he knows he wants to be involved deeply in the entertainment industry when the future gets here.
